Listening First: How Community Feedback Shapes MCCLC Programs

At Madison County Community Learning Centers (MCCLC), we believe that the best programs are built with—not just for—the community. That’s why community feedback isn’t a box we check; it’s the foundation of everything we do.

From our parent and caregiver circles to student-led conferences, we create consistent and meaningful channels for community voices to shape the direction of our work. When families told us transportation was a barrier, we secured vans and launched community pickup routes. When parents asked for more leadership opportunities for teens, we expanded our youth internships and created new mentoring tracks. And when students said they wanted more say in what they learned, we responded by co-creating project-based learning units that align with their passions and interests.

The result? Programs that reflect the real needs and dreams of the people we serve. By listening first, we build trust, increase participation, and ensure that MCCLC stays rooted in service—not assumptions.